Booklist Review

The ever-popular Jake Maddox series of sports-themed books for reluctant readers expands with this new spin-off series of graphic novels. This installment follows Andre as he presents a report to his class, recounting his summer full of soccer. Andre and his best friend, Cullin, are psyched to move up in the league ranks and play under legendary Coach Winston, but just before their first practice, Winston retires. In his place is a young coach with very unconventional methods, and Cullin is so frustrated with the new direction, he quits. Andre, however, perseveres and ultimately sees the value in their new coach's strange drills. The straightforward writing, easygoing lesson, fast-paced soccer action, and animated, expressive panels make this particularly inviting for reluctant readers, and some closing comprehension questions will make teachers happy. Kids who can't get enough Jake Maddox will appreciate this refreshing format, and soccer fans might get a kick out of the handful of instructions for soccer moves in the back matter.--Hunter, Sarah Copyright 2010 Booklist